Elderly Fear Being Alone

Sky TV News

United Kingdom

January 17, 2008

So lonely - we fear growing old alone

Being alone is our biggest worry as we grow old, according to a study. People are increasingly concerned about becoming isolated and having little contact with friends and family, says the welfare organisation elderlyparents.org.uk.

In a study of its clients, the group, which provides advice to children coping with the demands of ageing parents, found 46% of people said being lonely was their main concern about old age.

A further 30% said securing their home against intruders was their greatest anxiety as they approached their twilight years.

In other results, 19% of people worried about managing household chores and 5% feared being unable to contact anyone in an emergency.

Mike Bingham, director of elderlyparents.org.uk, said: "Traditionally, worries about health and maintaining independence are seen as the main concerns of the elderly.

"But it appears the next generation of elderly people will be just as concerned with their emotional well-being as their health.

"This will heap huge pressure on the so-called Sandwich Generation, those people coping with the demands of elderly parents and their own children.

"Feeling guilty about not spending enough time with their elderly relatives is just one more thing for them to worry about."

Other recent research has painted a bleak picture of life for Britain's pensioners with around 300,000 reporting they often go for an entire month without speaking to family or neighbours.

Elderly people are also twice as likely to kill themselves as young people, said the organisation.

Mr Bingham added: "It is a fairly depressing picture but it is important to know that there is help and support for people looking after elderly parents."

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